Abstract: A photocatalytic oxidation and ozone catalyst system utilizes ultraviolet light and ozone in the treatment of waste and wastewater to destroy pathogens and to break down most hydrocarbons and other chemicals into non-hazardous forms. The wastewater enters the system for initial treatment and is also pumped through the venturi loop and is exposed to ultraviolet light. The ozone interacts at the venturi before the ultraviolet light is being used as a catalyst by the ultraviolet light to break apart the double bonds of ketones, aldehydes, esters, and carboxylic acids. Following initial treatment, the wastewater is pumped into the pressurized ozone enhancement vessel where vapor oxidation of the polluting chemicals occurs. The enhancement vessel comprises a liquid spray component and a series of ozone resonator plates having ozone distribution manifolds that spray the wastewater with ozone. The plates have angular channels formed therein through which the wastewater passes.

Abstract: Systems and methods for peritoneal dialysis establish flow communication between a patient's peritoneal cavity and a drain through a pump chamber having generally vertically spaced upper and lower regions andt a diaphragm. The systems and methods operate the pump chamber, with the upper and lower regions oriented generally vertically, by applying fluid pressure to the diaphragm. The systems and methods direct liquid to the patient's peritoneal cavity only from the lower region of the pump chamber. In this way, the improved systems and methods collect air in the upper region of the vertically oriented pump chamber, while isolating the patient's peritoneal cavity from air in the pump chamber.

Abstract: A hemodialysis apparatus is supplied with dialysis fluid or a dialysis fluid component through a supply loop conduit 12. A shut-off device 22, such as a magnetic valve, is arranged between the apparatus and the supply conduit 12. A buffer volume is enclosed between the shut-off device and an additionally arranged shut-off device such as a non-return valve. During disinfection of the apparatus, in order to prevent disinfecting fluid from flowing back into the supply loop conduit and therewith an endangering other dialysis apparatus connected to the same supply loop conduit, in the event that the shut-off device 22 leaks, the buffer volume is pressurized to a defined pressure, which is preferably higher than the pressure in the surrounding conduit sections. This pressure is detected by a pressure sensor P. The signal generated by the pressure sensor P is monitored by a microprocessor 28.

Abstract: A system for collecting and processing donated blood comprises a first porous medium interposed between a blood collection bag and a satellite bag and a second porous medium interposed between the blood collection bag and another satellite bag. The porous media are leucocyte depletion media. The system may also include one or more of the following: a red cell barrier medium, a separation medium, a gas inlet, and a gas outlet. The system can be used to centrifuge whole blood into one or more components, and includes a means for protecting the system during centrifugation.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for oxidizing an aqueous suspension of organic matter at elevated pressure. The apparatus has a reactor and an inlet for the aqueous suspension which is introduced to an upstream end of the reactor. A device for circulating the aqueous suspension through the reactor. An inlet for an oxygen containing gas introduced to the aqueous suspension. An outlet for removing treated aqueous suspension from a downstream end of the reactor and a static mixer vane arrangement for splitting, rearranging and combining the aqueous suspension as the circulating device circulates the aqueous suspension through the reactor. The improvement comprises withdrawing the treated aqueous suspension from the downstream end of the reactor and combining a major portion thereof with fresh incoming aqueous suspension. The circulating device returns the combined aqueous suspension to the reactor via the inlet for the aqueous suspension.

Abstract: A water purifier removes harmful materials from tap water by electrochemical oxidation-reduction and distillation without using any filters. The water purifier has an electrochemical oxidation-reduction unit which removes heavy metals and organic materials from tap water by an electrochemical oxidation-reduction reaction, thus providing pre-purified water. A distillation unit heats the pre-purified water in order to vaporize the water while distilling off harmful materials. The vapor is discharged from the distillation unit and is condensed by a condenser while flowing in a vapor guide pipe, thus providing finally-purified water.

Abstract: An apheresis apparatus for increasing the purity and yield of platelets separated from donated whole blood by centrifugation incorporates a centrifuge for separating whole blood into lower, intermediate, and higher density components. The centrifuge has inlet and outlet ports in selective fluid communication with a container for receiving lower density blood component from the outlet port. A pump is coupled to the container and the inlet port for recirculating lower density blood component from the first container through the inlet port into the centrifuge at a first, substantially constant, rate so as to widen the region of the centrifuge occupied by the intermediate density component without causing the intermediate density component to exit the centrifuge, and subsequently at a second rate, so as to displace intermediate density component from the centrifuge.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for removing unwanted fluid such as gas from a processed blood product are disclosed. Methods include the steps of passing a blood product from a closed first container through a functional biomedical device to produce a processed blood product, flowing the processed blood product and an unwanted fluid from the functional biomedical device to a second container through a conduit, separating the unwanted fluid from the processed blood product in the second container, preventing the flow of the unwanted fluid from the second container through the passage to the functional biomedical device by using a clamp and passing the unwanted fluid from the second container to the first container through an outlet providing fluid communication between the second container and the first container. The outlet includes a barrier medium which allows the passage therethrough of the unwanted fluid but prevents the passage therethrough of the processed blood product.

Abstract: A system for collecting and processing donated blood comprises a first porous medium interposed between a blood collection bag and a satellite bag and a second porous medium interposed between the blood collection bag and another satellite bag. The porous media are leucocyte depletion media. The system may also include one or more of the following: a red cell barrier medium, a separation medium, a gas inlet, and a gas outlet. The system can be used to centrifuge whole blood into one or more components, and includes a means for protecting the system during centrifugation.

Abstract: The method of cleaning porous ceramic filters with a backwashing apparatus comprising an accelerating circulation path and a unit for mixing accelerated water with high-pressure air can be implemented with compact equipment to achieve efficient cleaning. The pool water purifying apparatus and system that adopt this method of cleaning porous ceramic filters comprise a filtering system that uses the ceramic filters, a disinfecting unit and an adsorbing unit and, optionally, an ultrafiltration unit as an additional filtering unit, and are capable of removing not only bacteria but also viruses so that the water purified by this apparatus and system may be as clean as potable water. Such an extremely high efficiency of water purification achieved by the apparatus and system can be maintained over a prolonged period since both the filtering and adsorption means can be cleaned by backwashing.

Abstract: A water purification through-flow device which comprises a cylindrical shell which is divided lengthwise into two or more sectors, separated from each other by partitions, with a cover fitting one end of the shell, in which cover there is provided an inlet for water which is to be purified. Depending on the number of sectors, the outlet is provided in the same cover if there are two sectors, and in the other cover if there are three sectors: the water flowing through each of the sectors one after the other. The individual sectors may contain the same purification substance, or different sectors can contain different ones. There may be provided mechanical filtration means for the water passing through the device, and there may be provided means for closing the various sectors during storage.

Abstract: A system for handling organic waste at a food-handling facility includes a mill that reduces the volume of the waste and a below-ground storage tank that receives the milled waste. A ventilation line and an air flow producer draw air from the storage tank, placing the tank under negative pressure and preventing noxious odors from escaping into the facility. A rigid suction line extends from the interior of the storage tank to points external to the tank and the facility itself. A suction truck periodically removes the waste stored in the tank, applying suction to the suction line to draw the stored waste into a portable tank aboard the truck. The suction truck transports the waste to a disposal site where the well-divided waste may be expelled onto and incorporated by tilling into soil for decomposition by soil organisms.

Abstract: An element-locating device for pure water maker which includes a water reservoir, three filters, a reverse osmotic membrane tube, a pump, a transformer and a board body on which the pump and the transformer are disposed. The above elements are disposed in the locating device including a box body having a rectangular cross-section and clamps respectively disposed on four corners of the box body. Each clamp includes two symmetrical first clamping portions and two symmetrical second clamping portions. The first clamping portions of the clamps abut against the water reservoir and the second clamping portions of the clamps abut against the filters or the reverse osmotic membrane tube respectively.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating a liquid by pervaporation, which comprises at least one pervaporation membrane module unit for purifying a liquid to be treated, a supply line connected to said pervaporation membrane module unit for supplying the liquid to be treated to the membrane module unit, a withdrawing line for withdrawing the permeated fluid from the membrane module unit and a withdrawing line for withdrawing the non-permeated liquid, wherein said supply line is provided with a pressure pump for transporting the liquid and a heater, and the final withdrawing line for the non-permeated liquid is provided with a pressure regulating valve.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the purification of a polluted liquid, especially a washing liquid used at a washing installation, by sucking the polluted liquid and leading it through at least one filter and next leading back the liquid purified thus to a take-off point, whereby the liquid flow carried through the filter is maintained at a substantially constant level. The invention further relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method comprising a suction line connected to a source of polluted liquid, a discharge line for the purified liquid debouching at a take-off point, at least one filter unit positioned between the suction line and the discharge line, a pump connected therewith in series and a device for limiting the amount of liquid flowing across the filter unit positioned in series with the filter unit.

Abstract: A blood processor for separating blood into cellular blood components and blood fluids including means for receiving a source of blood whose components are to be separated; means, operatively associated with the means for receiving, for separating cellular blood components from blood fluids, the means for separating including means for permitting passage therethrough of blood fluids but inhibiting the passage of blood components therethrough; a pulsating pump for pumping blood from the means for receiving into the means for separating and for agitating the blood within the means for separating; and, wherein the cellular components in the blood are inhibited from blocking the means for permitting passage, thereby facilitating the movement of blood fluids through the means for permitting passage.

Abstract: Apparatus for separating waste liquid and solid material comprises an upwardly inclined passage containing an auger for conveying the solid waste material upwardly along the passage, with an inlet opening at a lower end of the passage for receiving a mixture of waste liquid and solid material into the auger, a drainage opening at the lower end of the cylindrical passage for draining liquid from the solid waste conveyed by the auger, and a compactor for receiving the solid material fed upwardly by the auger and compacting the solid waste material. An extruder receives and extrudes the compacted solid waste material from the compactor, and may be arranged to convert the compacted material into pellets.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for reducing the number of leukocytes in cellular products like platelets collected in an on line or continuous blood separation processes. The systems and methods reduce the number of leukocytes from a cellular suspension before its separation into a cellular-rich concentration. This leads to effective and efficient leukocyte removal and a high quality blood product suited for therapeutic use, with and without long term storage.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for processing a biological fluid including leukocytes during cardioplegia are disclosed. A method for processing a biological fluid including leukocytes comprises passing a cardioplegia fluid through a bacterial removing filter; mixing the cardioplegia fluid with the biological fluid including leukocytes to form a cardioplegia mixture; and, passing the cardioplegia mixture through a cardioplegia mixture filter assembly to produce a leukocyte-depleted cardioplegia mixture, said assembly comprising a porous medium to remove leukocytes from the cardioplegia mixture.

Abstract: The dialysis apparatus in accordance with the present invention is provided with main piping connecting a blood inlet and a blood outlet, and having disposed therealong a blood pump, a dialyzer, and a venous-side chamber, in that order from the blood inlet side; and with a supplementary fluid supply mechanism, which is connected between the blood inlet and the blood pump through the medium of a branch pipe branching from the main piping; this apparatus is furthermore provided with a first clamp provided between the blood inlet and the blood pump of the main piping, a second clamp provided between the venous-side chamber and the blood outlet, and a third clamp provided on the branch pipe. In addition, by means of this dialysis apparatus, it is possible to reliably and easily return blood within the main piping of the dialysis apparatus to the body of the patient after the completion of blood dialysis.

Abstract: Systems and methods for processing blood direct blood through the inlet of a separation device for removing undesired matter while directing the blood substantially free of undesired matter from the outlet of the separation device and into a collection container through the first port. The systems and methods expel residual air from the collection container through a second port different than the first port.

Abstract: In a dialysis apparatus having a dialyzer and a single balance chamber, the internal volume of the balance chamber is preferably at most 2/3 of the volume of the dialysis fluid chamber within the dialyzer. As a result, during the dialysis fluid recirculation cycle, at most 2/3 of the volume of fluid within the dialysis fluid chamber will be replaced by fresh dialysis fluid. Preferably, the duration of the recirculation cycle is approximately equal to the duration of the balance chamber filling cycle.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating contaminated, e.g. oily, water including a floating skimmer (3) for skimming the surface of the contaminated water (2). The contaminated water from the skimmer is fed to a hydrocyclone (6) for separation of the water and contaminant. The hydrocarbon rich stream from the hydrocyclone undergoes further separation using a spear (8).

Abstract: A dialysis machine assembly having an internal flushing and filling facility for a blood flow circuit of the assembly is disclosed. The dialysis machine assembly includes dialyzer having a membrane and an inlet and an outlet for blood side with corresponding blood tubes and an inlet and an outlet for dialysate side with a valve located downstream of the outlet for dialysate side. A dialysis liquid supply is connected to the inlet for the dialysate side and the valve is partially closed to force dialysis liquid to flow through the membrane from the dialysate side to the blood side through the blood tubes to flush and fill a blood flow circuit prior to performing a dialysis treatment with the dialysis machine.

Abstract: A waste water treatment system is illustrated which can be configured to be portable and which minimizes the addition of solids to be disposed of through the use of ozone for contaminant reduction to basic elements after the pH value of the waste water to be treated is properly adjusted. This ozone in one stage is combined with ultrasound to cause coagulation and precipitation. In another stage, ozone and ultraviolet light are used in a reduction process. Ion alignment using a magnetic field and an electrochemical flocculation process to which the waste water is subjected causes further coagulation and precipitation. As designed, the system can operate continuously with redundancy at appropriate points so that removal of solids from the filtration units can occur simultaneous with the overall decontamination process.

Abstract: A fluid recapture system collects residual waste fluids generated during airplane washing or de-icing procedures and separates and recycles these fluids to prevent contamination of storm water drainage and sewer systems and ground water supplies. The fluid recapture system includes a containment mat, a triangular berm with a resilient foam center surrounding the containment mat, a vacuum system located on the containment mat and recycling apparatus connected to the vacuum system. The recycling apparatus includes a pump for withdrawing fluid from the containment mat through the vacuum system and into the recycling apparatus. The pump withdraws the water from the containment mat and sends it to an effluent storage tank. From the effluent storage tank, the water is cycled through a hydro cycle machine, a reverse osmosis tank and finally into a clean water storage tank. The clean water can be reused in the airplane washing procedure.

Abstract: In a process for filtering plasma by separating blood into blood cells and plasma by a primary filter and filtering the separated plasma by a secondary filter to remove macromolecules from the plasma as harmful components, the loss of plasma to be discarded from the system by a procedure for eliminating plugging of the secondary filter can be diminished by opening an inner chamber of the secondary filter to the atmosphere to thereby lower the internal pressure of the chamber every time increase of the pressure to an upper limit value due to an increasing plugging tendency of the secondary filter is detected, and washing the interior of the secondary filter from the inner and outer chamber sides after the internal pressure has lowered.

Abstract: A clarifying device for waste water has a plurality of containers for receiving waste water, and a device for aerating or gasifying waste water in at least one of the containers. The containers are formed as treatment cells which are combinable with one another to provide a waste water throughflow and which are small when compared with conventional clarifying reservoirs. The treatment cells are closed from outside. A negative pressure source is connected with the treatment cells for producing negative pressure in the latter.

Abstract: A filter unit for a modular filter assembly comprises a head (1), said head having a feed chamber (2) and a discharge chamber (3), and a casing (6) surrounding a filter element (4). Fluid flow from the feed chamber to the discharge chamber of said filter unit passes through said filter element. The head (1) is provided with a first inlet opening (21) and a first outlet opening (22) which communicate with said feed chamber (2), and the head (1) is provided with a second inlet opening (31) and a second outlet opening (32) which communicate with said discharge chamber (3).

Abstract: A tertiary treatment unit is provided that has a first filtration unit operatively connected to an influent for filtering solids therefrom to form an effluent, a second filtration unit operatively connected to the first filtration unit to receive the effluent and to filter finer solids and bacteria and viruses from the effluent, a supply tank operatively connected to the effluent to provide chemicals that are mixed into the effluent, and a reactor that receives the effluent and removes nitrogen and some phosphorous therefrom to form a treated effluent. The treatment unit further has a first adsorption unit that receives the treated effluent and adsorbs additional nitrogen, BOD, TSS and certain chemicals from the treated effluent, and a second adsorption unit that receives the partially adsorbed treated effluent from the first adsorption unit and adsorbs additional phosphorous from the treated effluent to form the final effluent.

Abstract: A method and materials for separating oil from water, using stacked disks to coalesce the oil, is disclosed. The method of coalescence allows configuration of systems which are compact, efficient, adaptable to modular configuration, and have a very high flow rate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the multiple passage of fluids through a treatment unit (e.g. a medical apheresis unit). The apparatus includes primary and secondary vessels. Connected to the primary vessel is a first conduit which terminates at the treatment unit outlet, and a second conduit which terminates at the treatment unit inlet. Connected to the secondary vessel is a third conduit which terminates at the treatment unit inlet, and a fourth conduit which terminates at the treatment unit outlet. In use, a clamp is simultaneously secured to the first conduit and second conduit prior to filling the primary vessel with fluid (e.g. bone marrow). The clamp is then removed and placed on the first conduit and the third conduit simultaneously so that fluid flows from the primary vessel, into the treatment unit, and into the secondary vessel.

Abstract: A chlorination and dechlorination apparatus and method for the treatment of wastewater or other fluid including a chlorinator, a contact tank, and a dechlorinator. The contact tank is a vessel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening and is divided into two contact chambers by a baffle which runs vertically the entire length of the contact tank. A baffle opening is provided at the lower end of the baffle to allow passage of fluid from the first contact chamber to the second contact chamber. The chlorinator includes a chlorine tablet feeder and the dechlorinator includes a dechlorination tablet feeder. The fluid under treatment flows from the inlet opening to the outlet opening in a plug-flow pattern. Previous to entering the contact chambers, the fluid washes over and dissolves chlorine tablets stacked in the chlorine tablet feeder. After flowing through the contact chambers, the fluid washes over and dissolves dechlorination tablets stacked in the dechlorination tablet feeder.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removal of solids from aqueous wash solutions such as, but not limited to, solutions used in hot jet-spray parts washers. Coarse solids are removed by a vortex separator during all operations. Solids accumulated in the parts washer storage tank are intermittently removed and fine solids are removed by intermittent depth filtration. In one embodiment of the invention, the method includes the purging of the vortex separator to the primary stage of depth filtration.

Abstract: Apparatus for separating solids and liquids has an initial separator for removing coarse solid material from a mixture of solids and liquids, a first screen for separating further solid material from the liquid and a first auger extending axially through the first cylindrical screen for removing the separated further solid material from the first cylindrical screen. A second screen receives the liquid from the first screen and separates fine particles from the liquid, and a compactor between the first and second screens compacts the solid material removed from the first screen by the first auger. A second auger is provided in the second screen for mixing and removing the compacted solid material and the separated fine particles.

Abstract: The device for purifying a flow of liquid by means of ultraviolet radiation, includes an elongated ultraviolet lamp; a generally tubular inner casing surrounding substantially the lamp, the casing being made of a material that allows transmission of ultraviolet radiation, the casing having an aperture at each end thereof from which the electrical terminals of the lamp protrude; and a generally tubular outer casing surrounding the inner casing and forming with it a flow passage, the outer casing being provided at substantially each of its ends with inlet and outlet for the flow of liquid. Two connectors are disposed respectively at both ends of the device for securing the lamp and the inner casing with respect to the outer casing.

Abstract: A specimen processor, for operation with holder apparatus carrying a viewing screen and a filter device and a container of a biological sample, has a frame with reference structure for aligningly engaging the holder apparatus, and has a transport that carries a manipulation device. The processor operates the transport and the manipulation device to engage the filter device, remove it from support by the holder apparatus and collect cellular particles from the sample onto the filter device. The processor further operates the transport and manipulation device to abut the filter device with the viewing screen for transferring collected cellular particles to the screen, and to return the filter device to carrying by the holder apparatus.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing selenate from waste water through the use of selenate respiring microorganisms under substantially anoxic conditions is described. The method includes a first zone for removing nitrate by assimilation into biomass. The first zone is maintained under aerobic conditions and is separated from a second zone where selenate is respired to elemental selenium by selenate respiring microorganisms under anoxic conditions. Biomass produced in the first zone may be processed to provide nutrients and electron acceptors for the maintenance of selenate respiring microorganisms when selenate becomes growth limiting. An optional sulfate reduction zone is provided in the method and apparatus where hydrogen sulfide is produced. The hydrogen sulfide so produced is circulated to the second zone and may be used to reduce residual selenite to elemental selenium.

Abstract: A cartridge-like holder or carrier for automatic operation with a specimen processor has a frame for removable and replaceable alignment in operative engagement with the specimen processor and has multiple supports, each of which removably and replaceably supports an implement such as a container of a biological specimen having cellular particles suspended in a liquid, a filter device for use in collecting cellular particles from the liquid in the sample container, a viewing screen onto which the collected cellular particles can be transferred from the filter device and, further, an output container for receiving the viewing screen with the cellular particles thereon. A transfer mechanism on the apparatus is operable for the automatic transfer of the viewing screen from a support on the frame, where it received the cellular particles, to an output container at a further support on the frame. The cartridge apparatus brings to the specimen processor the sample and all disposable devices, i.e.

Abstract: The local reclamation system includes an accumulation tank for a soiled solution. A tank outlet valve selectively allows a flow of the solid soiled solution into the remainder of the system. A blend conduit leads from the outlet valve. An oxidizing supply selectively provides an oxidizing agent to said soiled solution downstream of the outlet valve in the blend conduit. A blend pump receives the soiled solution with oxidizing agent to promote the flow of the soiled solution through the system and a more uniformed disposal of the oxidizing agent throughout the solution. A six stage filter section selectively removes particulate matter. A biologic stage promotes a sterile reclaimed solution and a solution accumulator accumulates and stores the solution. Repeated injections of oxidizing agents occur before filter stage sections and pumps. The reclaimed solution can be reused or discharged without penalty.

Abstract: A process for treating an aqueous waste water or groundwater containing organic contaminants degradable by hydrated electrons comprises contacting the aqueous waste water or groundwater with an agent which generates hydrated electrons on photolysis. Additionally, the aqueous waste water or groundwater is irradiated with UV light to photolyse the hydrated electron generating agent, thereby generating hydrated electrons to degrade the contaminants. In one embodiment, the aqueous waste water or groundwater is contacted with the hydrated electron generating agent and a reducing agent to recycle the hydrated electron generating agent.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling liquid from a site comprising at least three liquid retention cells which are arranged in series with respect to the flow path of the liquid through the apparatus, the liquid retention cells being arranged in at least one group which comprises at least three of said cells disposed adjacent one another, an inlet for delivering liquid to an upstream cell of the apparatus and an outlet for discharging liquid from a downstream cell of the apparatus to a discharge line, and transfer orifices which provide liquid communication between adjacent cells in the group, the or each transfer orifice being configured so as to control the liquid flow between adjacent cells and create a condition whereby there is a dissipation of energy of the liquid between each cell apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus and method provide automated collection and transfer of particles from a liquid suspension to a glass slide for visual examination. A solution which contains particles, for example cells, is drawn through a filter element so that particles too large to pass through the filter element collect against a first surface of the filter element. A transfer fluid, such as alcohol, is applied from a second surface of the filter element to the first surface, to transfer cells from the filter element to a glass slide positioned adjacent the filter element. An alternative transfer mechanism applies a selected pneumatic signal to the filter element for transferring collected cells to the viewing slide. The apparatus includes a device for dispersing the liquid suspension of particles prior to the collection process and particles collect against the filter element with a spatial distribution advantageous for visual examination. The transfer operation maintains this spatial distribution.

Abstract: A process for separating the grease, solids and water components from grease such as grease traps and fry grease. The grease is collected and introduced into a primary holding tank to effect primary crude separation. The grease is removed to a second stage separator for further concentration. The water and solids are separately directed to a second stage to separate these components. The separated water is treated suitable for discharge into a sewer. The solids are dried and the solids and grease are then suitable for re-use. In the preferred embodiment, the separators are centrifuges. Heating of the grease may also be necessary to achieve proper viscosity for handling and to remove bacteria.

Abstract: A system for reclaiming water which has been previously used for such purposes as washing vehicles includes both a diatomaceous earth filter for removing particulates and a carbon filter for removing organic contaminants. Reclaimed water which is in the system and not immediately required for use is continuously recycled by a pump so as to increase the removal of contaminants. A second pump moves the cleaned water into a pressure tank for use in washing. A substantial portion of the system is disposed below ground level with a lockable cover above.

Abstract: Apparatus for composting biological waste material, comprising a screen for separating the waste material into solids and liquids, a sludge outlet for adding sludge to the solids to form a mixture therewith and a compacting section for compacting the mixture. Further sludge is mixed with the compacted mixture to form a further mixture therewith, which is composted in a composter. The liquid separated from the biological waste is screened to remove fine solids and the fine solids are added to the first-mentioned mixture prior to the compacting thereof, the liquid being added to the further mixture in the composting section.

Abstract: The apparatus has a column (1) of closed interior. Pipe (7b) leading into its upper part to admit liquid of higher density, and pipe (7a) leading into the lower part to admit liquid of lower density. Pipes (8, 10) emerge from the lower part to discharge liquid of higher density, and from its upper part to discharge liquid of lower density. Level control and propelling force adjusting mechanism (9) is connected with the pipe discharging liquid of higher density. Dispersing-mixing elements surrounding cells are beneath and above each other in the column (1). Pulsator (4) is connected with the lower part of column (1). The dispersing-mixing elements are formed by discs (5) having elastic tongues (13a) in the plane of discs capable for vibration and to move out of the disc's plane during vibration, and gap (14) runs along the periphery of the tongues (13a).

Abstract: Apparatus for reducing the solids and oil/grease components of a water mixture includes a tank for holding a water mixture for a period during which heavier-than-water components of the water mixture settle to the bottom of the held water mixture and lighter-than-water components rise to the top of the held water mixture. It includes devices for separating solids from liquids in a flow of solids and liquids and for separating oil/grease from water in a flow of oil/grease and water. A first discharge line from the tank adjacent the location of the heavier-than-water components communicates with the device for separating solids from liquids, and a second discharge line from the tank adjacent the location of the lighter-than-water components communicates with the device for separating oil/grease from water. A third discharge line from the tank intermediate the first and second discharge line is provided for the removal of water with reduced solids and oil/grease components.

Abstract: Apparatus for removal of a desired material from a liquid is described, in which the liquid is cycled through a plurality of liquid treatment containers in a first direction and brought into countercurrent contact with a medium for recovery of the desired material cycled through the treatment containers in a second, opposite direction. After treatment of the liquid, the medium is advantageously regenerated in a plurality of medium regeneration containers. The used medium is cycled through a plurality of medium regeneration containers in a first direction and brought into countercurrent contact with a medium regeneration liquid cycled through the regeneration containers in a second, opposite direction.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for continuously treating infectious waste, which comprises: (a) introducing bulk unseparated infectious waste material into a receiving container means, the receiving container means adapted to receive a flow of disinfectant such that the receiving container means remains substantially free of infectious contaminants; (b) shredding the waste material by a primary shredding means; (c) separating the shredded waste material from waste residue in a separation tank means having a predetermined fluid level thereby producing a waste slurry; (d) pumping the waste slurry into a reactor vessel means; (e) contacting the waste slurry with a disinfecting fluid in the reactor vessel means for a sufficient amount of time to disinfect the waste slurry; and (f) dewatering the disinfected waste slurry to recover solid disinfected waste material.